Nodachi

Nodachi

Epic Armoury’s Nodachi is a two-handed Japanese sword meant for elite samurai. The Nodachi is 140 cm long, with a 100 cm long single edged cutting-blade. It has a large oval crossguard and a small rounded pommel. The handle’s oval shape helps to steer the blade intuitively, and is adorned with menuki bindings made from full-grain leather. The menuki bind is twin-layered and made from contrasting colors, creating a diamond pattern.

Nodachi were large, but unwieldy weapons. With their long cutting edge, they were somewhat at odds with the bushido styles, and thus quickly became symbols of skill and status. Since they required extensive training to be used correctly, they were mostly used for dueling or in the hands of cavalrymen. While on the field of battle, they were made to look dangerous in the hands of elite troops with a fearsome reputation.

History

• Nodachi means “field sword” in Japanese
• Also referred to as an “Odachi,” which means “big sword”
• Typically used for ceremonies and cavalrymen due to its long blade size